UNA Theatre Presents '6 Characters in Search of an Author’

Nov. 1, 2012

FLORENCE, Ala. – Mid-20th century meets modern-day Florence, Ala., in the fresh, thought-provoking production that will kick off the University of North Alabama’s 2012-13 theatre season. The university’s Department of Music and Theatre will present Luigi Pirandello’s “6 Characters in Search of an Author” at the George S. Lindsey Theatre Nov. 8-10 and 16-17 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 11 at 2 p.m.

Directed by Dr. David Ruebhausen, associate professor of theatre at UNA, “6 Characters in Search of an Author” begins as an acting company is starting a routine rehearsal. Suddenly, they are interrupted by the mysterious arrival of six people claiming to be characters, unfinished and abandoned by their author. Though assumed by the actors to be lunatics, the characters soon lure them into their story and show the actors that the line between reality and fiction is often unclear.

Written in 1921 by Italian playwright Luigi Pirandello, “6 Characters in Search of an Author” is considered a landmark work of world dramatic literature, inviting its audience to ponder the true meaning of reality. The play contains some language and subject matter of an adult nature.

Ruebhausen said the production is uniquely thought provoking and light hearted.

“While it does bring up some interesting philosophical questions, there’s also quite a bit of comedy, particularly from the roles of the actors, who are essentially representing the reactions of the audience,” he said.

Ruebhausen said audience members can also expect impressive special effects and lighting. Integrated into the production will be “intelligent lighting,” or mobile, computerized lighting instruments. “6 Characters in Search of an Author” will be the first production that has utilized the intelligent lighting capabilities of the new Lindsey Theatre.

Tickets for admission are $5 for students, senior adults and UNA employees, and $10 for the general public. For more information, contact the Department of Music and Theatre at 256-765-5122, or visit www.una.edu/music-theatre.

The “6 Characters in Search of an Author” cast includes:

Summer Akers, of Florence – Mother
Payton Ayers, of Tuscumbia – SM
Spencer Cantrell, of Sheffield – Spencer
Chuck Chiriaco, of Rainbow City – Chuck
Forrest Harlan, of Florence – Forrest
Abby Hood, of Lawrenceburg, Tenn. – Abby
Brady Lunsford, of Wetumpka – Stagehand
R.J. O’Connell, of Florence – R.J.
Haley Prestridge, of Jasper – Director
Max Raybon, of Tuscumbia – Father
Shiloh Shelton, of Adamsville, Tenn. – Madame Pace
Adam St. John, of Florence – Son
Candace Williamson, of Florence – Stepdaughter

The crew includes:

Dr. David Ruebhausen, associate professor of theatre – Director
Charlton James, assistant professor of theatre – Artistic director
Bryan Hall, of Sheffield – Technical director and lighting
Todd Hammock, of Leighton – Assistant director
Vicki Cochran, of Springville – Scenery
Caleb Kendrick, of Cordova – Student technical director and makeup
Summer Akers, of Florence – Costumes
Shiloh Shelton, of Adamsville, Tenn. – Assistant costumes
Adam St. John, of Florence – Lighting
Luke Hunter, of Powder Springs, Ga. – Sound